High School Student Trainee

Career Area:

Students and Graduates Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

What You Will Do:

As a Student Trainee at Caterpillar's Pontiac Facility, you will support the Manufacturing Engineering team working on Caterpillar's world‑class fuel system components. This role provides hands‑on exposure to a manufacturing environment while contributing to improvements in safety, quality, velocity, and cost. You will learn how engineered processes support production and gain practical experience on the factory floor while working alongside engineers, technicians, and supervisors. This position is located in Pontiac, IL, with an anticipated start date of early summer 2026. Part‑time hours of 10 to 32 hours per week are expected.

Job Responsibilities:

Job duties may include, but are not limited to: Reviewing and updating manufacturing process documentation (e.g., Standard Work, Control Plans, PFMEA). Supporting factory floor improvement activities to enhance technician safety and efficiency. Performing time studies to identify potential improvement opportunities. Assisting engineering team members with data collection and basic analysis. Communicating effectively with team members and supervisors. Follow all safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Student Trainee Qualifications:

Incoming high school junior or senior for the 2026-2027 school year. Able to commute to the Pontiac, IL facility with reliable transportation. Basic experience using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks. Interest in learning about manufacturing and engineering environments. Physical Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation): Ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods. Ability to perform repetitive operations.

Top Candidates May Also Have:

Ability to follow documented procedures and perform work safely and accurately. Basic problem‑solving skills with interest in identifying and addressing issues. Mechanical aptitude or interest in hands‑on assembly work. Interest in pursuing a future career in manufacturing, engineering, or a related field.

Additional Information:

These are part-time, temporary positions. Positions are located on-site at Caterpillar's Pontiac, IL facility. Relocation assistance is not available for this position. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

What You Will Get:

Student Trainee Hourly Rate:

Hourly rate is based on your grade level for the 2026-2027 school year. Juniors receive $15.00/hr; Seniors receive $16.00/hr.

Student Trainee Benefits:

The total rewards package, beyond hourly pay, includes: Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO). Optional medical coverage. Optional voluntary benefits.

Final Details:

Please ensure you frequently check the e-mail account you provided on your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method in our recruiting process.

Summary Pay Range:

$15.00 - $17.50

Intern Hourly Rate:

An intern's hourly rate is based on the major/degree being pursued and the number of completed academic hours achieved before the start of the internship.

Intern Benefits:

The total rewards package, beyond base salary, may include if eligible: Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO) Paid Holidays Paid Volunteer Day Housing Stipend Relocation Assistance Medical coverage Voluntary benefits This position requires working onsite five days a week. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:

May 7, 2026 - May 21, 2026 Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen. Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply. Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community. There's more to work at Caterpillar than just the work itself. We hire smart, friendly people and it shows in our culture. We hold ourselves to high standards and make sure our values of integrity, excellence, teamwork, commitment and sustainability come to life in the way we work. We make sure our employees feel continuously challenged while also supported. We provide professional growth opportunities, including leadership programs. We celebrate the diversity of our team, while also working together as one Caterpillar. Our culture, like everything at our company, is made possible by each employee's contribution. Person by person, we create the environment we work in, and we are proud of the Caterpillar we've built.